Filmmaker Wale Adenuga, CEO of Wale Adenuga Productions, has addressed recent claims by actor Abiodun Ayoyinka—famously known as Papa Ajasco—who said he is facing financial difficulties despite his decades-long role in the popular TV series Papa Ajasco and Company.
In a statement released on Wednesday, March 18, Adenuga described the narrative as “false and misleading”, providing details of his professional relationship with Ayoyinka and clarifying the structure of their engagement.
“I want to address the wave of misinformation, emotional commentary, and uninformed public intervention that has followed his recent media interview. I am doing this not with malice, but in the interest of truth, transparency, and the integrity of a legacy that has entertained millions of Nigerians for decades,” Adenuga said.
He highlighted that Ayoyinka was a civil servant with the Lagos State Government for over 30 years and had also served as the face of the state’s cultural troupe. Adenuga emphasized that the actor had received support from the production company over the years, including provision of vehicles and assistance with housing.
Addressing the restriction on using the “Papa Ajasco” brand, Adenuga explained it was necessary to protect the integrity of the character, but stressed that actors are free to take on other jobs and advert work, provided they seek official approval.
He questioned the claim of financial hardship, noting:
“Now, the question is: why is Abiodun Ayoyinka claiming to be broke? Where are the investments from his over 30 years of meritorious service with the Lagos State Government? What happened to his gratuities?”
Adenuga also mentioned that other cast members, including Pa James, Mama Ajasco, Boy Alinco, Miss Pepeiye, Akpan, and Oduma, regularly feature in other productions, highlighting that the company does not restrict external engagements. He further explained that actors typically spend only six weeks per year on set, leaving time for other pursuits.
Reaffirming his commitment to professionalism and artist welfare, Adenuga concluded by thanking the public for their concern and support while asserting that any claims of neglect or financial exploitation are entirely unfounded.
